Stretching and taking in
Two opposite tasks: stretch where it pinches, and narrow where it's loose. Both done on a shoe last, with time to set.
When they pinch
We stretch on a last with a leather-stretching solution: for width, at the instep, or as a spot stretch at the ankle bone. The pair needs to rest for a day, otherwise the leather springs back into shape.
- Genuine leather stretches up to half a size
- Suede and nubuck — extra care, with nap control
- Synthetic materials barely stretch, and we'll warn you about that
When they're too wide
We take in the shaft at the calf or narrow the heel counter. We unpick the seam, remove the excess, sew it back, and even out the zipper so it doesn't wave.
- Taking in the shaft up to 4 cm around
- Zipper replacement together with taking in — in one visit
- Heel counter tightening, so your foot doesn't slip out of the shoe
Restoration and dyeing
Worn toe, faded color, de-icing salt stains. This one takes longer: sanding, layer-by-layer paint, fixing and polishing.
What it looks like
- Degreasing and removing the old coating
- Filling scratches and scuffs
- Two-coat dye with drying time between coats
- Sealant and wax polishing
We match the color with you, on a hidden part of the shoe.
Bag and belt repair
Same machine, same leather. Small belt jobs are done while you wait; bags are usually left until the next day.
What we work on
- Slider and zipper on a bag, backpack, jacket
- Handle: repair, reinforced attachment, or a new leather one
- Lining: stitching a tear, replacing the bottom
- Belt: new hole, shortening, buckle replacement, edge finishing
- Hardware: carabiners, rings, magnetic snaps
With expensive bags we look first and tell you whether we'll take it on: sometimes it's more honest to refuse than to ruin it.